Optimize distillation columns, part 1: trayed columns
Article Abstract:
The chemical process industry is increasingly focusing on distillation column optimization during the design stage to cut costs, improve energy utilization and boost operation flexibility. Distillation columns can either use trays or packings. There are two distinct types of trayed distillation column designs: cross-flow and parallel-flow trays. Tray performance depends on design type, tray deck type and column throughput. A number of rules to maximize theoretical stages per height of section or column, minimize pressure drop per theoretical stage and maximize column operational range, turn-down or turn-up have been developed to help trayed column designers.
Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Progress
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0360-7275
Year: 2000
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Part 2: packed columns
Article Abstract:
The application of basic mass-transfer and pressure-drop principles can result in the identification of general optimization rules for packed distillation column design. Distillation columns using packings can be divided into two major groups based on the type of packing used, namely, random or dumped packing or structured or ordered packing. A number of rules to maximize theoretical stages per height of section or column, minimize pressure drop per theoretical stage of separation and maximize column operating range have been developed to help packed column designers.
Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Progress
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0360-7275
Year: 2000
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Don't get drawn into distillation difficulties
Article Abstract:
Major factors in distillation tower draw design relating to liquid and vapor draws, partial and total draws and draws from both trayed and packed towers are critical to proper product draw operation. Improper draw operation is a typical source of problems in towers. Suggested basic design options/guidelines for vapor and liquid draws from trayed/packed towers as well as nozzle sizing criteria ought to help chemical engineers avoid problems.
Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Progress
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0360-7275
Year: 1998
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